Unloading results in rapid loss of TGF beta signaling in articular cartilage: role of loading-induced TGF beta signaling in maintenance of articular chondrocyte phenotype?

摘要

Objective: Recently it was shown that loading of articular cartilage explants activates TGF beta signaling. Here we investigated if in vivo chondrocytes express permanently high TGF beta signaling, and the consequence of the loss of compressive loading-mediated TGF beta signaling on chondrocyte function and phenotype.